A Novel QCM-based Biosensor for Detection of Microorganisms Producing Hydrogen Sulfide

A novel piezoelectric quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) device with gas permeable membrane is proposed for the detection of microorganisms producing hydrogen sulfide (H2S). The detection theory is based on the adsorption of hydrogen sulfide onto the silver electrode of the piezoelectric crystal sensor, which causes a dramatic decrease in the resonant frequency of QCM. A 100Hz frequency shift is chosen as the criteria value to judge the presence of microorganisms producing H2S. Factors affecting detection were investigated. Desiccant is of great practical importance in sensor response. This new biosensor can be a potential candidate for detecting bacteria which produce hydrogen sulfide.